| Written by David Wang, The Catholic Register,
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 If you want to find out more about Catholic musicians, there are now two great resources for doing so. One is . It is starting to be recognized as the best print magazine on Catholic music. You can find the online version at www.gvonline.net but you can also support this initiative by buying a hard copy.
Another site is www.TopCatholicSongs.com. Here, one can check out several “Top 10” lists of songs and artists. You can also read about the story behind some superb songs. This site is in its early stages so the founders of this site (Catholic parodyist Nick Alexander is the main driver behind this initiative) are definitely looking for feedback in order to serve you, the listener, in a better way.
Ascent — Toward the Heights
This is the debut recording not just from this group but from the fledgling Mediatrix Records Catholic music label. Ascent is four sisters from Michigan who have created a pleasant light pop recording with sweet harmonies. If you are a fan of Christian groups such as Point of Grace, this CD is one to check out. It has a strong Catholic thread throughout, from the cut “Mother” to “My Divine Mercy,” which are the album’s best songs. Although I found myself wishing the album would kick into a higher gear at times, I am sure that future artists from the label will fill a harder edged niche. Both the group and the label are worth a look at www.mediatrixrecords.com.
Steve Angrisano — Live (Songs from the Road)
Angrisano is one of the most respected Catholic artists in the business now. The best way, in my opinion, to enjoy Angrisano’s music is to hear him live. Thus, I greatly enjoyed this new release. This CD captures what it is like to be at a praise and worship concert. The inter-song banter, particularly a touching tribute to Columbine, where this artist worked and was deeply affected by the tragedies there, give you a glimpse into the heart of this man’s ministry. Available at www.SpiritandSong.com.
ValLimar and Frank Jansen — Anointing
ValLimar Jansen has a superb voice and these modernized R&B-influenced covers of spirituals such as “Wade in the Water” and “Ezekiel Saw the Wheel,” interspersed with more recent songs such as Bob Dylan’s “Gotta Serve Somebody,” definitely highlight Jansen’s Gospel talents. The production quality is very high, but, at times, the incessant heavy beats in these mixes distract from the songs. Overall, however, this is a great recording which fills a void of urban R&B music in the Catholic music scene. There is no doubt that this artist has pipes. Available at www.SpiritandSong.com.
Danielle Rose — I Thirst
This is the final recording from Danielle Rose as she is joining the Franciscan Sisters and it is evident from this album, inspired by Mother Teresa, that she is in a place where she is feeling great intimacy with her creator. This album is dominated by ballads with a country tinge. The songs are very passionately sung and well-produced. The highlight is a memorable “Mother’s Heart.” I truly hope that, as Rose pursues a religious vocation, that her gift of music is still allowed to sing out. Check out www.Catholicmusicnetwork.com for purchase information.
Xalter — Blood of the Martyrs
Every once in a while, in my job as a reviewer, I get sent a CD which is a pleasant surprise. Xaltar, an indie band from New Mexico, has a very promising debut recording. “Resurrection,” the first Beatlesque song, is a bouncy fun single that is incredibly catchy. The last cut, “God Believes in You,” is also a winner. In between these bookmarks are essentially classic rock Catholic-themed songs. My only caveat is that some of the songs sound just a little too close to songs that you recognize. Regardless, this is a group to support. Information can be found at www.xaltar.com.
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